If you watched NBC's "Today Show" on the morning of Nov. 13, you saw the inspiring story of Life Fitness co-founder, Augie Nieto. In 2005, Nieto was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease), a degenerative muscle condition that paralyzes and ultimately takes the lives of its patients three to five years after diagnosis.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association’s nationally broadcast telethon, MDA’s Show of Strength Telethon, one of America’s longest-standing fundraising and entertainment events, airs Sunday, September 1st on the ABC Television Network at 9/8c. The program raises funds and awareness to support the MDA’s mission to help children and adults affected by progressive and often fatal muscle diseases.

On behalf of the Life Fitness family and friends, we’d like to congratulate Life Fitness President Chris Clawson on his unanimous election as the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) National Vice President, part of the organization’s volunteer leadership.

Chris has worked with the MDA for 7 years, extending the bridge between the fitness industry and the MDA that Life Fitness co-founder Augie Nieto established in 2005, when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease).